Finally, the act of rolling sleeves has evolved into a style statement.
The way you roll them can keep an outfit formal in hotter weather or take it to business casual. This small detail is a simple art that takes a few minutes to master, but makes a world of difference to your appearance, the social signals you send out and the silhouette of your outfit.
Here are three ways to do it. For all the methods, the first step is to undo the buttons on the cuff and gauntlet of your shirt.
Master Roll
This is the most preferred and least restrictive method of folding and is used when you have a contrasting cuff with a design on the inner.
1. Roll up the sleeve to about two widths of the cuff.
2. Smooth any creases or folds in the fabric.
3. Roll from the bottom end of the sleeve once more to cover the cuff, leaving only the top end of the cuff exposed.
If the inside of the cuff has a contrasting colour or design, show just a hint of it and cover the rest.
4. Hold the top edge of the cuff and pull down to undo the fold.
AIFA Roll
The AIFA roll screams casual, is easy and suitable for men with short, narrow arms, making them look proportionate as it exposes only a third of the arm.
1. Fold the bottom of the sleeve once, about the width of the cuff.
2. Using a similar width, repeat with the folded cuff.
3. Avoid smoothing the fabric.
This roll ends below the elbow and is perfect for a day out with the family — with a dress shirt and your favourite denim.
Basic Roll
Also called the ‘Beginner Roll,’ this method is the natural way to roll sleeves. Depending on the shirt and fit, the basic roll can be time-consuming, restricts your hand movements and is difficult to undo.
1. Using the cuff as a measuring point, fold the cuff once.
2. Repeat several times, tugging at the fabric to ensure it is straight and smooth.
3. Roll up until you go past the elbow.
4. This roll is suitable when your sleeves are considerably wider than your arms. The extra fabric is required for the third fold.
5. Some casual shirts feature a button or thin strip of fabric inside the sleeve to secure a basic roll.
Shortening your shirt sleeves can be fun, irrespective of the season. Experiment with the various methods and mix it up so you are not stuck to the same styles.
